Marko Dragojevic and Howard Giles

2 Language and interpersonal communication: Their intergroup dynamics

Abstract: Intergroup communication occurs when either person in a social interaction defines self or other in terms of their social identity (i.e., as a group member) rather than their personal identity (i.e., as a unique individual). In this chapter, we argue that most interactions traditionally considered interpersonal are actually intergroup in nature. Positioning our argument in light of intergroup theories, we first discuss the dynamic nature of communication, noting how conversation can quickly shift between various degrees of interpersonal and intergroup salience. Second, we describe the social categorization process, with particular ...

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